Ofankor–Nsawam project: How long must commuters suffer?

Commuters and drivers relying on the Ofankor–Nsawam section of the Accra–Kumasi Highway are growing increasingly frustrated as the ongoing road project faces yet another delay. What was intended as a symbol of progress has devolved into a daily ordeal for thousands of people.

The 33.4-kilometer expansion and rehabilitation project, which commenced in July 2022, was initially slated for completion by July 2024. This deadline was missed, and with a revised completion date of July this year fast approaching, the contractor, Meripoma Enterprise Limited, has indicated it cannot meet the target.

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This contractor is not serious, the pace of the project could have been faster if they work day and night. You hardly see them on Sundays. Even the number of people you see working everyday shows that the contractor is playing with our lives.

For road users, the situation translates into long hours stuck in traffic, dusty conditions during the dry season, and hazardous muddy stretches during the rains. Areas like Amasaman, Sapeiman, Sasam, Hebron, Medie, and Dobro are plagued by deep potholes and heavy congestion, especially during peak hours. Commercial drivers, whose livelihoods depend on the road, are particularly hard-hit, facing reduced daily earnings and increased vehicle maintenance costs.

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What is even annoying is the Police barrier at Dobro. By 6 pm the Police will erect their barrier causing so much traffic. What do they do, just chasing motor riders and asking drivers, anything for the boys?

Concerns have also been raised about the Police barrier at Dobro, which allegedly causes significant traffic by 6 p.m. and is perceived by some drivers as a means for collecting bribes. Commuters like trader Madam Efua Owusu report that rising transport fares and extended travel times are negatively impacting her business. Vehicles frequently break down due to the road's poor condition.

Project officials state the road is 82% complete. The Chief Resident Engineer, Kwabena Bempong, confirmed the contractor's request for an extension, citing compensation issues. While maintenance works are underway to ease movement, key structures like the Pobiman and Medie flyovers are not expected to be finished until mid-2026. These assurances offer little immediate relief to those enduring daily hardship, highlighting a need for greater urgency and accountability from the contractor.

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The contractor must scale up work immediately, while authorit